A NORTH Yorkshire village is hoping new technology could revive the community's post office - even though a bid is in to pull down the old building on the high street.

Skeeby's shop closed in June, after owner Jennifer Hardy decided enough was enough after she had been the victim of an armed robbery and a burglary within a year.

There was little interest when the business was offered as a going concern.

The Village Retail Services Association indicated it may know of someone willing to at least take on the post office role.

But, four months on, the shop is still empty and planners at Richmondshire District Council have been asked to consider the demolition of the premises, which would be replaced with a house.

Chairman John Budden confirmed the parish council had been notified of the application, but had found it difficult to reach a consensus on the issue.

"If we say we don't want to see the shop demolished, then we could be left with an empty building, which would just become an eyesore if we cannot find anyone willing to take on a village shop," he said.

"However, if we agree to the building being pulled down, it will feel as though we are throwing away the chance of reviving a much-needed local facility - it really is a Catch-22 situation."

However, even if the district authority's planning committee backs a new house on the site, there is hope that at least the post office will survive.

"They can be run from front rooms or even village halls these days," said Mr Budden. "All we need is someone who is willing to take it on."

Mike Whitlock, spokesman for the Village Retail Services Association, said his organisation was aware of new computer technology which allows more flexibility over where post offices can be based.

"It would be fantastic if we could find someone prepared to consider running a service from, say, the village hall in Skeeby," he said. "Rural communities are losing more and more of their facilities these days so it is vital people support those that are left."

Anyone prepared to consider running new facilities in Skeeby is asked to contact the parish council.